Preserving the West: The Waldron Land Conservancy and Six 9 Ranch

In the heart of southern Alberta, where the rugged foothills meet the open plains, lies the Waldron Ranch—one of the most historically significant and ecologically rich landscapes in Canada. This land, now part of the largest conservation easement in Canadian history, represents not just a vital part of Alberta’s ranching heritage but a commitment to preserving native grasslands for future generations. At Six 9 Ranch, we’re proud to be part of this legacy, running our Wagyu-Angus cross cattle on the Waldron throughout the summer and fall.

A Legacy of Ranching and Conservation

The Waldron Ranch—originally known as the Walrond Ranch—was established in 1883, during the era when much of Alberta’s open grasslands were transforming into cattle country. With 260,000 acres of leased land and 8,500 head of Hereford and Polled Angus cattle, it was one of the largest operations of its time. Over the decades, ownership changed hands, passing through some of Alberta’s most well-known ranching families, including Pat Burns, W.R. Hull, and the King Brothers.

In the late 1950s, a group of determined southern Alberta ranchers—many of whom were WWII veterans—set out to secure long-term grazing land. Their vision led to the formation of the Waldron Grazing Co-operative in 1962. Pooling their resources, 116 ranchers and farmers purchased the Waldron for $1 million, ensuring that the land would continue to support Alberta’s cattle industry. Today, the co-operative has 65 shareholders, each with livestock that graze on the vast, rolling grasslands of the Waldron.

The Conservation Connection

What makes the Waldron truly special is its ecological significance. Unlike much of the province, which was homesteaded and cultivated, the Waldron’s rough terrain helped it remain largely untouched. The ranch sits between the Porcupine Hills to the east and the Whaleback to the west, an area of native prairie that supports a diverse range of wildlife, from elk and deer to numerous bird species. Native grasslands like those on the Waldron hold their food value through the winter, making them a crucial resource for both livestock and wildlife.

Recognizing the importance of this land, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) partnered with the Waldron Grazing Co-operative in 2015 to expand its conservation efforts. The acquisition of the historic King Ranch added 14,000 acres to the easement, bringing the total conserved land to over 65,000 acres. This agreement ensures that the Waldron will remain a working ranch, free from development and cultivation, preserving Alberta’s ranching way of life while protecting vital ecosystems.

Six 9 Ranch and the Waldron Connection

At Six 9 Ranch, we believe in raising cattle the right way—respecting the land, the animals, and the traditions that have shaped Alberta’s ranching heritage. Our Wagyu-Angus cross cattle are calved out at home and pasture-raised, allowing them to grow in a natural environment that supports their health and well-being.

In the summer and fall, our cattle graze on the Waldron, benefiting from the nutrient-rich native grasses that have sustained livestock here for over a century. This connection to the Waldron allows us to produce high-quality beef while contributing to the ongoing stewardship of one of Canada’s most precious landscapes. By maintaining our presence on the Waldron, we’re helping to ensure that this land remains both productive and protected—just as those original ranchers envisioned.

Looking Ahead

The story of the Waldron is one of resilience, cooperation, and foresight. Thanks to the vision of past and present ranchers, the land remains as it was generations ago—wide open, rich with native grasses, and home to both cattle and wildlife. At Six 9 Ranch, we’re honoured to be part of this tradition, carrying forward the principles of responsible ranching and land stewardship.

As we look to the future, our commitment remains the same: to provide high-quality beef while respecting the land that sustains us. Through partnerships like the Waldron Grazing Co-operative and conservation efforts with the NCC, we’re ensuring that Alberta’s ranching heritage continues for generations to come.

The West isn’t just a place—it’s a way of life. And at Six 9 Ranch, we’re proud to keep that tradition alive, one season at a time.

Photo credit to The Waldron Ranch